The intercity bus industry in Texas : problems and potential

Includes bibliographical references (leaves 84-85)This dissertation presents the results of a study of the intercity bus industry in Texas. The reasons for the study include the declining financial condition of the intercity bus industry and the increased interest of state and federal governments in the problems of the industry. The primary objective of the research was to define the nature and condition of the intercity bus passenger market in Texas by developing a data base from which to assess the potential of the intercity bus industry to meet future intercity transportation needs. The history and development of the Texas intercity bus industry were reviewed using the limited data available. The industry's growth was found to have paralleled the national experience, although the Texas industry was found to be somewhat healthier. Despite its somewhat healthier state, the industry appears to have matured. Two surveys were conducted to advance the knowledge concerning intercity bus riders and the general public in Texas towards intercity bus service. Significant findings include the determination that intercity bus trips are longer than those reported in the literature. The thesis that usage of intercity bus service decreases with income was supported by the data. Lastly, it was concluded that deregulation is unlikely to significantly improve the performance of the industry, because the potential for ridership growth is limited